On June 28, 2026, at 4:16 p.m. Deputy Eric Powell and Oakland City Officer Sergeant Michael McGregor were at the flood waters on State Road 64 near County Road 1275 East when they observed a Black Chevrolet Pick up drive past the high-water barricades and into the high water towards them. Upon stopping the vehicle, they observed obvious clues that the driver was intoxicated. At that point Deputy Powell began a roadside DUI investigation. At the conclusion of his investigation he placed the driver, 57-year-old Ryan Powell of Otwell, into custody and transported him to the Gibson County Detention Center where he was charged with Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated.
Deputy Shawn Holmes and Oakland City Officer Ty Schmittler assisted Deputy Eric Powell and Officer Michael McGregor in their investigation.
All criminal defendants are to be presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
